en·cour·age ( n-kûr  j, -k r-)tr.v. en·cour·aged, en·cour·ag·ing, en·cour·ag·es 1. To inspire with hope, courage, or confidence; hearten. 2. To give support to; foster: policies designed to encourage private investment. 3. To stimulate; spur: burning the field to encourage new plant growth. [Middle English encouragen, from Old French encoragier : en-, causative pref.; see en-1 + corage, courage; see courage.] en·cour ag·er n.Synonyms: encourage, animate, cheer, embolden, hearten, inspirit These verbs mean to impart courage, inspiration, and resolution to: encouraged the athlete to compete; played music to animate the crowd; a visitor cheering the patient; was emboldened to sing for the guests; praise that heartened us; a pep talk that inspirited the weary team. Antonym: discourage |
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